As this day comes to a close, I’m especially grateful to represent a community filled with people who care deeply. From our volunteers and local organizations to our teachers, first responders, and neighbors who quietly step up when others need help, you make this a wonderful place to call home.

I am proud to share that legislation sponsored by my colleague Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon has officially been signed into law. nyassembly.gov/leg/?default...

I’m proud to share several important investments that have been secured and delivered to organizations throughout our community. These funds are strengthening local programs, improving public safety, expanding recreation, and supporting the health and well-being of families across the region.

Across the 110th Assembly District, far too many families continue to face food insecurity, and ensuring consistent access to healthy, reliable food has been one of my top priorities since taking office.

It is impossible to watch any sporting event without seeing a commercial for a sports betting platform. Not only can this be frustrating for the average viewer, but it also makes watching sports very difficult for someone recovering from a gambling addiction, since they are constantly being tempted.

I had the opportunity this week to meet with a remarkable group of young Irish people in Washington, DC who are interning in government, industry and labor roles. Their enthusiasm and commitment to public service were truly inspiring and it was a pleasure to hear about the work they are doing.

November is Child Safety and Protection Month, a time to recognize our shared responsibility to keep every child safe, supported, and able to thrive. As a community, we all play a role in building a stronger future for our children.

Housing costs are an increasing burden on hardworking New Yorkers, which is why I'm doing everything I can to lower them.

I visited the Guilderland Food Pantry to present a $25k state grant that will support their year round work feeding local families. Even though the federal government shutdown has been temporarily resolved, many households are still dealing with the uncertainty it created around programs like SNAP.

The latest edition of my monthly newsletter just hit inboxes this morning! If you didn’t receive it in your email, you can read it here: mailchi.mp/nyassembly/o... You can also sign up to receive future editions directly in your inbox at assembly.state.ny.us/mem/Phil-Steck

Need help with a state issue or have questions about community resources? My office is here to help! Join us for Mobile Office Hours on Tuesday, November 18, from 12–3 PM at the Woodlawn Branch Library, 2 Sanford St., Schenectady.

In response to an op-ed calling for fewer regulations on kratom, I wrote a piece for @empirereportny.bsky.social explaining why transparency & safety must come first. People deserve to know what they’re putting into their bodies & labeling standards are a critical step toward protecting consumers.

Today we honor the brave men and women who have served our country with courage and commitment. Their sacrifices have protected our freedoms and strengthened our communities.

I introduced legislation to regulate the sale and labeling of kratom products in New York State. Kratom is an unregulated, mind-altering substance that can be easily purchased online or in stores with little to no oversight. Our goal is simple: protect consumers by ensuring transparency and safety.

Small businesses are the backbone of our communities, but too often they face challenges that make it difficult to compete, whether it’s tariffs, regulations, access to capital, or finding workers.

I joined New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez at Albany International Airport for the opening of the airport’s new Children’s play area, sensory room, and business center.

On Sat 11/8the Town of Colonie will host a Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event from 1–4pm at the Colonie Landfill (4 Arrowhead Lane, Cohoes). This is a great opportunity to safely dispose of items like old paint, chemicals, and other household hazardous waste that can’t go in regular trash.

If you or someone you know is in need of food assistance, please use the local resources listed in the graphic below. With SNAP benefits still uncertain at the federal level, these community organizations are here to help make sure no one goes hungry.

Today is Election Day! Polls are open until 9PM. Make your voice heard and cast your vote. Local elections have a direct impact on our communities and your participation truly makes a difference. You can find your polling location here: voterlookup.elections.ny.gov

I’m looking forward to seeing all the trick-or-treaters out and about tonight. Enjoy the candy, the costumes, and the community spirit that makes this such a great time of year. Have a happy Halloween, and stay safe out there!

It’s encouraging to see these funds going directly to providers rather than being delayed by a lengthy approval process. As we continue to address the opioid crisis, it’s critical that resources reach those on the front lines as quickly as possible. www.governor.ny.gov/news/governo...

Yesterday, I held a joint hearing with Assemblymember Carrie Woerner, Chair of the Assembly Racing and Wagering Committee, to examine the dramatic rise in gambling addiction resulting from the proliferation of online sports betting.

Want to avoid construction zones and get real-time traffic updates? Just visit 511ny.org for the most up-to-date travel info!

This morning, I had the pleasure of visiting SEAT Center in Schenectady to present $75,000 in state funding for their incredible YouthBuild Schenectady program.

It is essential that the government take action to address the cessation of SNAP benefits to millions of Americans who depend on this program for food to avoid malnutrition. On the Republican side, people need to be reminded that the Republicans control both houses of Congress and the Presidency.

I voted early today at Boght Community Fire Department and it was quick and easy! Early voting for the 2025 General Election runs from Saturday, October 25 through Sunday, November 2 in both Albany and Schenectady counties.

Working at a job that doesn't have a pension or 401k? The Secure Choice Savings Program can help New Yorkers save for the future!

Football season is in full swing! There's nothing better than spending time with family and friends while rooting on your favorite team. But with all the excitement comes real risks, like problem gambling.

I had the pleasure of visiting Bring On The Spectrum and seeing the impact of their incredible work firsthand. Earlier this year, I secured $30K in state funding to support their new A.D.A.P.T. program, an initiative that helps youth and community groups learn about neurodiversity.

Today marks 18 days since the federal government shutdown. While Republicans in Washington refuse to sit down and negotiate with the Democrats, who are in the minority, my constituents are starting to feel the impact of this political theater.

This winter, Capital Region families are facing heating bills that are expected to rise by 10%, on top of already high utility costs. No one should have to choose between heating their home and putting food on the table.

I led a bipartisan coalition with Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh, Assemblymember Lasher, and Assemblyman Ed Ra, requesting the Department of HHS, the DEA and the FDA exercise their powers under the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act to add Kratom products as a Schedule I substance.

I applaud Albany International Airport for removing the Kristi Noem video blaming Democrats for the government shutdown. Not only is it impermissible politicization of the venue, it is also false. www.youtube.com/watch?v=4F-9...htt

This morning, I joined Town Supervisor Erin Cassady-Dorion, Niskayuna Baseball League President Phil Sidoti, members of the Nisky Baseball League board, and members of the Town Board at Blatnick Park to announce $150,000 in state funding to upgrade the baseball fields.

This morning, I was proud to attend the USS Slater’s celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States Navy. On October 13th, 1775, the Continental Congress authorized the creation of the Continental Navy.

Today we recognize Indigenous People’s Day & honor the rich history, culture, and contributions of Native peoples across our nation. We must continue to acknowledge the injustices of the past while committing to respect, partnership, and progress for Indigenous communities here in New York & beyond

Today, I joined Assemblymember Romero, Assemblymember McDonald, Senator Fahy, Mayor Sheehan, and other leaders at the NYS Federation of Democratic Women at the Rally for Justice & Democracy in support of New York State Attorney General Letitia James, held at the James T. Foley U.S. Courthouse.

My Chief of Staff, Thad Rutherford, joined The Murray Group Insurance Services, Inc. to celebrate the grand opening of their new office at 43 British American Blvd. The Murray Group has long been a valued part of our community, and their continued commitment to giving back is truly commendable.

This morning I visited the Menands Union Free School District to present a $50,000 state grant that will help strengthen the partnership between families and schools while supporting student success.

Since CDPAP transitioned to having one fiscal intermediary on April 1st, our office has heard from numerous constituents who have encountered issues with PPL. My Legislative Director, Dylan MacQuoid, has been in constant contact with the leadership at PPL and has been working to resolve these issues

This morning, I joined community members, historians, and the New York National Guard at Albany Rural Cemetery to honor Chester A. Arthur, the 21st President of the United States, on his birthday.

Last night I joined members of the African Network of Capital District at their annual Nigeria Independence Day Celebration. It was a vibrant evening filled with music, culture, food, and community spirit, a true celebration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary and ANCD’s 32nd Anniversary.

Yesterday, I was proud to join the New York State Nurses Association Interregional meeting to celebrate their important victory with Albany Med. I have stood by the nurses since day one in their fight for fairness, dignity, and respect in the workplace. @nynurses.bsky.social

Last night I had the pleasure of attending the Fort Hunter Fire Company Open House. It was a wonderful evening celebrating the dedicated volunteers who give their time and energy to keep our community safe.

Today, I was proud to present eBizDocs with a citation in recognition of their 25th anniversary as a small business in Menands and to mark the start of Disability Awareness Month.

Last week I had the privilege of joining the Regional Food Bank and Chefs Gordon, Noah, Billy, and Miles at this year’s Chefs: Palm Royale event.

Yesterday, I was proud to join the John F. Finn Institute for Public Safety to announce $100,000 in state budget funding I was able to secure to support their work.

Last night, I joined Capital Tonight to talk about my Workplace Recovery Bill. This legislation is about giving people who are struggling with addiction a fair chance to rebuild their lives while staying in the workforce. spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/central-...

Yesterday, I was proud to join the Village of Menands, Mayor Brian Marsh, Albany County Legislator Tim Lane, and community members to break ground on a $12 million water and sewer improvement project.

view Last month I attended the National Alliance on Mental Illness annual summer social. Mental illness affects every aspect of our lives including our families, workplaces, schools, and communities.